Organisation profile

Organisation profile

Åbo Akademi University is the only university in Finland that has been specifically established to serve the needs of a minority group, that is, the Swedish speaking language minority. Subsequently, this purpose has been laid down in legislation. A research profile focusing on minorities is thus both natural and unique at a national level.

The Swedish-speaking minority in Finland has traditionally formed the core of our expertise in minorities. However, current Åbo Akademi University research on minorities builds on a broad understanding of minority research and its focus extends to minorities on a global level and encompasses both old and new minorities (migrants and refugees) as well as the processes of minoritization and resistance they engender. Four thematic areas form our research strengths and topics: Equal rights, discrimination and democracy; Minority identities and culture; Minoritization processes and minority positions in history; Culturally and linguistically responsive teacher education.

Our minority profile strives to explore the concept of a minority and minority positions from the novel angle as generating new narratives of inclusion and belonging. This multidimensional approach and focus as regards minority issues makes the ÅAU minority profile stand out in relation to other universities in Finland, and indeed internationally. It creates multiple possibilities for collaboration, and for making important contributions to exposing and challenging mechanisms and policies of marginalization and exclusion in society.

The minority research profile aims at developing the Åbo Akademi University into a world-leading centre for minority studies and research through cutting-edge research, teaching, and active societal engagement.

For more information about the profiling area, including upcoming events, also visit our webpages: https://www.abo.fi/en/minority-research.

UN Sustainable Development Goals

In 2015, UN member states agreed to 17 global Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to end poverty, protect the planet and ensure prosperity for all. Our work contributes towards the following SDG(s):

  • SDG 3 - Good Health and Well-being
  • SDG 4 - Quality Education
  • SDG 5 - Gender Equality
  • SDG 9 - Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure
  • SDG 10 - Reduced Inequalities
  • SDG 11 - Sustainable Cities and Communities
  • SDG 13 - Climate Action
  • SDG 16 - Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions
  • SDG 17 - Partnerships for the Goals

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Collaborations and top research areas from the last five years

Recent external collaboration on country/territory level. Dive into details by clicking on the dots or